Mankato 1/2 Marathon

Today I would like to share the story of how I had the inspiration to start running. Well it actually was more of a "push".

My older sister Terri has always been someone I have looked up to and admired. See, she was always the sister that had excellent grades, never got in trouble, excelled in everything really. She was what some might say "the perfect child". And much to my dislike, I was the next child in line. Not so good for me because I had her to live up to. I always wondered to myself (and sadly with a little envy in my heart) how she could be so darn good at everything she did. Well as we grew up one would think that things would even out a little right...well not exactly. See she still excels at anything she puts her mind to. The only difference now is that I know her secret. She has motivation and focus. Something she taught me.

A little over a year ago I was complaining to Terri about my lack of exercise. I always wanted to exercise however rarely took the opportunity to do so. She then told me I needed to sign up for a race. I was like, "you're out of your mind woman!" Now just to add to the story a little you all must know that Terri is a marathon runner (of course). Well story ends up a couple of months later I ran my first 10K (6.2 miles) with my big sis was right next to me encouraging me with every step. She was/is awesome and I love her for that. After this race I was totally pumped to do another race - possibly a longer race.

So this year I ran my first half marathon however my sister Terri was on the sidelines cheering me on. See she had a baby just a month and a half ago. But the really cool thing is...another sister of mine, Wendy, ran with me this year instead and it was both of our first time running a race of this length. Our goal was to run the entire race and cross that finish line. And I am happy to report we did just that...and we had a blast doing it. It was more to me than just a test of my physical capabilities. It was a test of my mental strength. After I crossed that finish line there was an immediate sense of pride that radiated from me. A feeling of...If I put my mind to it, I can accomplish anything.

And a big thank you to all of my supporters along the way.

Wendy and I at about mile 7ish
Our cheerleaders!

Even Baby Jared made it out to give us a cheer!

The 2011 Half Marathon Finishers of the Sohre Family

Shelly, Ted (brother-in-law), Wendy (sister)



And my running pal for the season....my bullet...my sista...Digger! Oh boy the laughs we had this year....but some of those stories stay in the vault! Love ya.